This 1954 XK120 is a documented car that presents in outstanding condition. SE stands for “Special Equipment,” and adds high-lift camshafts and a cylinder head from the C-Type to raise output to 210 horsepower.
Bodywork is better than new, with excellent panel fit and precise alignment. Considerable time was spent getting all the surfaces straight before any of the 2-stage Signal Red paint was applied. The beautiful hand-buffed surface is worlds better than paint technology permitted in 1954, and there is no sign of orange peel or other irregularities in the finish.
The interior was removed and restored at the same time the bodywork was refinished. The seats were stripped to bare frames and refinished, the gauges were rebuilt, and a new steering wheel installed. The soft parts were replaced, including the carpets and seat covers. The car has a full set of weather equipment, including a tan canvas top and tonneau cover.
Mechanically, this XK120 has been fully reconditioned by the experts at Donovan Jaguar Service. Receipts show that more than $36,000 was spent on the mechanical restoration alone. Noteworthy upgrades include new forged pistons, camshafts, and crankshaft, and it now makes a claimed 300 horsepower. Whatever the number, it is a very fast car.
New brakes, shocks, and expertly finished floors make this a car you can own and drive with confidence. Upgrades include competition torsion bars and sway bars, a set of neoprene bushings, and a set of new springs out back. The gearbox was completely torn down and rebuilt, and an aluminum flywheel and new clutch assembly were installed. Five new chrome wire wheels were fitted, and wear a set of recent Firestone wide whitewall tires.
There are no question marks, no gray areas, no asterisks with this XK120, as it is fully sorted and 100% road-worthy today. A beautiful, thrilling car to drive, the exhaust note alone is worth the price of admission.
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